Your microwave just went out. Now what?

It’s the moment every home cook dreads. You’re hustling to get dinner on the table, you go to zap your casserole in the microwave for a few minutes to heat it up, and …. nothing. No hum, no light, no magical radiation waves warming up your food from the inside out. Your microwave, that stalwart kitchen appliance you never thought twice about, has finally bit the dust.

Now you’re left scrambling to figure out your next move. Do you try to get the old one repaired? Should you upgrade to the latest and greatest smart microwave with wifi connectivity? Or will any old microwave do as long as it can reheat leftovers and pop popcorn?

Enter the Insignia microwave – an affordably priced option that delivers solid performance without a lot of extra bells and whistles. As an entry-level brand from Best Buy, Insignia offers practical technology products at budget-friendly prices. If you just need a simple, no-frills microwave that will get the job done, an Insignia is a great choice.

But how do you know which Insignia microwave is right for your needs and budget? As someone who recently found themselves in the same predicament, I learned a lot while researching the Insignia microwave line. Let me save you some time and share what I discovered in this buying guide to help you select the perfect Insignia for your kitchen.

Key Features of the Insignia Microwave

While Insignia leaves out some of the fancier features found on high-end microwaves, these appliances still come well-equipped to handle basic microwaving tasks. Here are some key things to look for:

• Wattage. Insignia microwaves typically offer 700-1000 watts of cooking power. The higher the wattage, the faster and more evenly your food will cook. 700-800W is sufficient for most households, while larger families or frequent cooks may want 1000W.
• Capacity. Insignia microwaves come in 0.7, 0.9, and 1.1 cubic feet capacities. The right size depends on your space, but 0.9 cu ft can handle a standard dinner plate.
• Interior. Most Insignia models have a stainless steel interior that is durable and easy to clean. Some larger models may have a black interior.
• Pre-programmed cooking modes. Options like “popcorn,” “pizza,” “potato,” and “reheat” take the guesswork out of microwaving by automatically setting times and power levels for cooking common foods.
• Express cooking. Quick keys to start the microwave at full power for 1-6 minutes. Helpful for speedy heating tasks.
• +30 sec button. This lets you add cooking time in 30 second increments – perfect for timing multiple items.
• Turntable. The rotating glass tray ensures even cooking and prevents hotspots. Removable for easy cleaning.

Microwaving Made Easy: Using Your Insignia

You just unpacked your shiny new Insignia microwave. While it may look sleek, you’ll get the most out of it by learning the basic functions:

1. Get acquainted. Read the user manual and understand what each button and dial does. Play around with opening and closing the door to get a feel for your new friend.
2. Set the clock. This ensures the time that displays is accurate when programming cook times. Refer to the user guide for exact instructions for your model.
3. Try express cooking. Press one of the number keys (likely 1-6) to start microwaving at full power, with each number representing minutes. See how your microwave heats up a cup of coffee or tea.
4. Experiment with power levels. Try microwaving a slice of pizza for 2 minutes on high (10), then repeat on 50% power for a gentler reheat. Get to know how power levels affect cooking.
5. Utilize presets. Try out the “popcorn” and “reheat” buttons by cooking a bag of microwave popcorn and chilling a mug of yesterday’s coffee. See how the microwave intuitively sets times and power for common items.
6. Read cooking guides. Check the user manual or inside of the door for guides with cook times and instructions for different foods. Use these as a starting point when trying new recipes.

With a little practice, your Insignia will become a go-to tool for swiftly preparing everything from steaming veggies to melting chocolate.

Troubleshooting Common Insignia Microwave Problems

Like any appliance, microwaves can encounter glitches. With an Insignia model, most minor issues can be resolved with some easy troubleshooting steps:

Microwave won’t start:

• Check that the door is fully closed and latched shut. The microwave will not turn on if the door is ajar.
• Make sure the power cord is securely plugged into the outlet. Also check that the outlet is working by plugging in another device.
• Reset the microwave by unplugging it from the wall for 30 seconds, then plugging it back in.
• Try pressing the OPEN/CLOSE button on the control panel. This may activate the safety interlocks.

Microwave is not heating food:

• Verify that the cooking power is actually set. Pressing START without selecting a power level will run the turntable and light, but will not heat.
• Test the microwave using the express cook function. Heat 1 cup of water for 1 minute at full power. If it does not become hot, contact customer support.
• Make sure the turntable is rotating and not obstructed. Also check that the door is properly closed and latched.
• Try resetting the microwave by holding down the STOP/CLEAR button for 3 seconds.

Following basic troubleshooting tips usually resolves minor issues with an Insignia microwave. But for complex problems, don’t hesitate to contact their customer support for assistance – that’s what warranties are for!

The Warranty Can Save You Money on Repairs

One major perk of buying an Insignia appliance is that it comes with a 1-year limited manufacturer’s warranty. This means that for the first year of ownership, defective parts and repairs are covered at no cost to you.

To take advantage of the warranty if your Insignia microwave breaks down:

• Have your receipt handy – you’ll need to show proof and date of purchase. Register your warranty for faster service.
• Contact Insignia customer support online or by phone. They can diagnose the issue and arrange warranty service.
• Consider where to get repairs. You can visit an authorized service center or arrange for an in-home technician visit.
• Get an estimate of costs. Repairs and trips covered by the warranty will be free. But you need to approve any charges you may incur after coverage ends.
• Schedule the repair. Certified technicians will bring replacement parts and tools to fix your microwave onsite.

The convenience of timely in-home repairs makes the 1-year warranty a valuable perk. Be sure to register your Insignia microwave and keep your receipt on file so you’re ready to use the coverage if problems pop up.

Budget Pricing with Solid Quality

A major appeal of the Insignia brand is the affordable price point. As Best Buy’s entry-level private label, Insignia aims to offer quality electronics and appliances at budget-conscious pricing for cost-savvy shoppers.

A typical Insignia microwave will run you between $50-150. What kind of features can you expect at different price points?

• $50-80 will buy a small 0.7 cubic foot microwave with 700-800 watts of power. Best for dorms, offices, or very light use. Limited features.
• $80-120 is the sweet spot for most buyers. A 0.9 cu ft microwave with 1000W power will accommodate daily use. More presets and express keys.
• Up to $150 buys a 1.1 cu ft extra-large model with premium styling and features like sensor reheating and customizable sound alerts.

While not dirt cheap, Insignia microwaves provide satisfying performance for routine cooking tasks at reasonable prices. And if you catch a sale? Even better bargain! For a basic microwave that will last several years without breaking the bank, you can’t go wrong with an Insignia.

Reliable Quality from a Trusted Brand

When researching microwave brands, you’ll find mixed reviews on reliability for just about every model. While no appliance is perfect, Insignia earns solid marks for dependability from a majority of owners:

• Decent lifespan. With proper care, most Insignia microwaves provide 5-8 years of service. Not bad for the price tag.
• Good parts quality. Internal components like magnetrons, switches, and turntables typically hold up well over years of use.
• Responsive customer service. Insignia offers phone, online and in-store support to promptly address issues.
• Simple design. With fewer electronic controls than fancier models, there’s less that can break down.
• Warranty coverage. The 1-year limited warranty provides a safety net for early defects. You can add supplemental coverage too.

For a low-cost microwave, Insignias perform reliably when used as directed. Following the owner’s manual and treating it with care will help maximize longevity. All told, a smart purchase for the budget-minded buyer.

Where to Buy Your Insignia Microwave

Since Insignia is Best Buy’s signature house brand, that’s the obvious place to purchase these microwaves. You’ll find the widest selection and great package deals at Best Buy locations or on their website.

But Insignia products are also carried by:

• Walmart – They sell popular Insignia models online and may offer limited quantities in some brick-and-mortar stores.
• Amazon – A reliable source for fast shipping on the most in-demand Insignia microwaves when Best Buy stock is low.
• Target – Occasionally offers deals on Insignia small appliances as short-term promotions or holiday sales.
• Home Depot – Stocks Insignia microwaves primarily during peak shopping seasons around back-to-school, holidays, and remodeling season.

For the best overall selection and prices, Best Buy is my top recommendation for purchasing an Insignia. But it pays to keep an eye on competitors for seasonal deals and easy price matching too!

Keeping It Clean: Care and Maintenance Tips

To keep your Insignia microwave looking and running like new:

• Wipe spills promptly. Use a damp cloth and mild detergent to clean messes inside the microwave as soon as they happen. Avoid built-up splatters.
• Remove the turntable to wash it in warm soapy water once a week. This prevents food grime buildup.
• Use steam to loosen stuck-on food. Place a bowl of water inside and microwave for 2-3 minutes. Steam softens hardened food for easier cleaning.
• Clean the window with glass cleaner to remove splatters and improve visibility. Don’t use abrasive scrubbers.
• Deodorize regularly. Cut a lemon in half and microwave for a minute or two to eliminate odors.
• Check the vent. Wipe down overhead ventilation hoods and vents to prevent dust buildup that can affect airflow.
• Check the door seal. Make sure the rubber gasket around the door sits flat and seals tightly. Watch for cracking or peeling.

With regular easy care, your Insignia can continue nuking leftovers and steaming veggies in spotless condition for years of faithful service.

Setting the Clock: A Key to Optimal Performance

After plugging in your new Insignia microwave, setting the clock seems like a mundane extra step before you nuke that bag of popcorn. But programming the correct time is important for optimal functioning. Here’s why:

• The clock enables timed cooking. Inputting the current time allows you to precisely set cooking durations.
• It powers delay start capability. Program future cook times by entering the time you want cooking to begin.
• The clock controls auto functions. Features like nighttime mute rely on the entered time to operate properly.
• It regulates reheating. For sensor reheat to work, the microwave estimates duration based on the ambient temperature, which relates to the current time of day.
• Accurate time aids troubleshooting. Technicians assessing microwave issues often review programmed cook times to help diagnose problems.

Setting the clock takes just a moment. Locate the CLOCK or TIME SET button on the control panel. Press it, then use number keys or dial to input the current time. Confirm by pressing ENTER or START. Refer to your model’s manual for detailed steps. Take this small but vital step to unlock the full potential of your Insignia microwave!

Size Matters: Choosing the Right Capacity

One of the most important factors when selecting a new microwave is the capacity. Insignia offers three common sizes:

• 0.7 cubic feet – The smallest interior capacity at just under 0.8 cubic feet. Best suited for dorms, offices, or very light use. Can fit a single plate of food or reheat small portions.
• 0.9 cubic feet – The most popular mid-size capacity. Around 1 cubic foot interior. Accommodates a standard dinner plate. Good for singles, couples, and light family use.
• 1.1 cubic feet – The largest Insignia capacity. Spacious 1.2+ cubic foot interior. Ideal for families that frequently microwave larger dishes and meals. Extra room for multi-item cooking.

To pick the right one, consider:

• Your kitchen space – Measure to ensure you have room for the external dimensions. Standard microwaves need about 2 cubic feet of space.
• How often you’ll use it – Light users can get by with a small 0.7 cu ft. model. Heavy daily use calls for 0.9 or 1.1 cu ft.
• What you’ll be cooking – Single servings do fine in small microwaves. Large casserole dishes need bigger models.

Measure your current microwave and dishes to determine the minimum size you need. But when in doubt, go a little bigger for added flexibility. You’ll gain extra interior room to reheat generous portions and accommodate larger cookware down the road.

Defrosting Done Right in Your Insignia

Thawing frozen foods is one of the handiest uses for your microwave. Safely defrosting meat, poultry, and more gives you access to frozen ingredients without hassle. Follow these best practices:

• Remove wrapping from the food before defrosting to prevent hot spots. Leave meat on a tray to catch drips.
• Use defrost or power level 30% to gently thaw food without starting to cook it. This may take more time, but preserves texture.
• Flip and check periodically to thaw evenly. Rearrange chops, turn roasts, and stir ground meat halfway through.
• Allow standing time after thawing for complete defrost. Letting it sit for 5-10 minutes allows trapped heat to finish melting internal ice crystals.
• Cook immediately after thawing. Don’t allow foods to sit at room temperature in the “danger zone” above 40°F for prolonged periods after microwaving.
• Modify time for amount. Defrosting 1 pound of ground beef takes about 5 minutes at 30% power. Double the time for 2 pounds.
• Follow your microwave’s tips for defrosting particular items like bread, fruit, or slices of pizza. The manual provides great guidelines.

With the flexibility of an Insignia microwave, you can pull ingredients from the freezer any night of the week.

Demystifying Watts: What Is Microwave Wattage?

Microwave wattage refers to the power output of the microwave – essentially, how hard and fast it can heat your food. Higher wattage means faster cooking times. Key things to know:

• Average wattage is 900-1000W. This provides sufficient power for most households without going overboard. Many Insignia models offer 1000W.
• Higher wattage costs more. Extra power adds expense, so only go higher if you truly need very speedy cooking. 1500W models heat 50% faster than 1000W.
• Lower wattage saves energy. If you only reheat small portions occasionally, a 600-700W microwave may suffice with slower cooking.
• You can adjust power. Microwaves don’t always operate at full wattage. Lower levels let you customize heating intensity.
• Wattage affects intensity, not safety. Higher watts don’t make microwaves inherently more dangerous. Safety standards limit the amount of radiation leakage.

For most buyers, a 1000W Insignia microwave offers the best balance of power, price, and energy efficiency. But assess your needs – wattage should reflect how you plan to use your microwave.

Installation Options: Countertop or Over-the-Range

Insignia offers two installation possibilities for their microwave models:

Countertop

This is the classic placement for a microwave. To operate, you simply need an electrical outlet nearby to plug into. Benefits include:

• Easy setup – Just unpack and plug in to use right away. No installation or wiring required.
• Convenient height for safe access, especially in homes with children.
• Mobility to move the microwave as needed – good for rentals.
• Works in any kitchen. Gets things microwaving quickly even if you can’t install a unit.

Over-the-Range

OTR microwaves mount above your cooktop and range built into your cooking hood. Perks include:

• Saves space by consolidating two appliances in one spot. No countertop footprint.
• Better sightlines to keep an eye on the stovetop while microwaving.
• Higher mounting leaves more counterspace free.
• Venting removes cooking fumes and smoke while cooking below.

Over-the-range requires professional installation and ducting, so consider cost. But for a built-in look in a full kitchen remodel, it’s a great option. Choose based on your space and needs.

Comparing Top Microwave Brands

How does Insignia stack up against major competitors like GE, Panasonic, LG, and Samsung? Here’s a brand-by-brand rundown:

• GE – Known for reliability and a variety of models. Prices start higher than Insignia but run the spectrum. More smart features available.
• Panasonic – Top reputation for durability, especially in commercial settings. Quality doesn’t come cheap though.
• LG – Focus on sleek, modern aesthetic and AI technology in higher-end models. Good mid-range options too.
• Samsung – Emphasizes futuristic tech like voice control and wifi connectivity. Prices skew high but performance impresses.
• Insignia – Budget pricing and simplicity define these. Lacks sophisticated features but delivers where it counts for basic, reliable cooking.

For shoppers who prize advanced tech, Insignia can’t compete. But it excels at providing everyday utility and quality at affordable cost. The value choice for anyone seeking a straightforward, no-frills workhorse of a microwave.

Presets Take the Guesswork Out of Microwaving

One helpful feature of the Insignia microwave is its collection of pre-programmed one-touch cooking buttons. These take the guesswork out of preparing popular items by automatically setting times, power levels, and functions suited to each specific food.

Here are some presets commonly found on Insignia models:

• Popcorn – Starts popping right away with ideal time and power no matter the brand or size.
• Pizza – Heats slices perfectly without rubberizing the cheese or turning crust soggy.
• Beverage – Gets coffee, tea, or cocoa piping hot and ready to drink.
• Reheat – Uses sensor cooking technology to determine time needed to gently reheat dinner plates.
• Potato – Softens whole spuds or baked potatoes using burst pulses of power.
• Frozen entrees – Optimizes timing to heat frozen lasagnas, pot pies, and similar items.

Thanks to these handy buttons, meals come out of the microwave cooked to perfection every time. Be sure to browse all the presets offered on the Insignia model you select!

Reset to Restore Factory Settings

Is your Insignia microwave suddenly acting up and displaying weird errors? Before calling a repair technician, try performing a reset. This restores the microwave’s factory default programming to give it a fresh start.

Here’s how to reset your Insignia:

1. Unplug the microwave from the electrical outlet. Wait 10 seconds.
2. Plug back in and check the display. Allow a minute to restart.
3. If it is still glitching, open the door to access the control panel.
4. Locate the RESET button and hold it down for 3 seconds. This will initiate a master reset.
5. Reprogram the clock, cooking options, and other preferences. Everything will be back to the out-of-the-box state.

Resetting provides a simple way to troubleshoot odd issues like scrambled displays or alarms. After resetting, monitor performance. If problems continue, it’s likely an electrical or mechanical issue needing pro diagnosis. But a quick reset may get your microwave functioning normally again.

Energy Efficient Cooking with Your Insignia

Microwaves are inherently energy-efficient appliances, using significantly less power than conventional ovens. But certain usage habits can maximize energy savings:

• Use microwave-safe cookware like ceramic and glass that allows for swift, even heating that won’t overwork the appliance.
• Opt for the microwave instead of oven whenever possible, especially for small portions.
• Keep components clean like the door seal to prevent leaks that force higher energy consumption.
• Vent properly so airflow isn’t obstructed, allowing optimal performance.
• Use auto features like presets and sensor cooking that stop heating when done rather than over-nuking.
• Don’t run it empty. This wastes energy when not actively cooking food.
• Clean air filter monthly so ventilation fan doesn’t work harder than necessary.
• Turn off LED clock display, if possible. This small light uses a few dollars in electricity annually.

With smart use, an Insignia microwave will zap your meals while also keeping energy bills in check. Added savings you can appreciate!

Troubleshooting Common Problems

Insignia microwaves are generally reliable, but occasionally issues crop up. Here are some common problems and likely fixes:

Sparking in cavity: This could mean you need a new waveguide cover, a part that protects the magnetron. Call for service.

Uneven heating: The turntable may be off track or broken, preventing it from rotating smoothly. Try inspecting its path for obstructions.

Dim or flickering interior light: Typically, the light bulb needs replacing. This is an easy fix by accessing the bulb socket and inserting a compatible new bulb.

Microwave leaking: If you detect radiation leakage, discontinue use immediately. Contact support – this likely means the door seal or similar component needs replacing.

Buttons not responding: Possible control board failure. First try resetting the microwave. If buttons continue to malfunction, contact support to determine if a control panel or touchpad requires replacement.

Don’t hesitate to utilize Insignia’s warranty if your new microwave exhibits concerning issues within the first year. Better safe than sorry when it comes to electrical appliances malfunctioning!

Can You Replace the Turntable?

That loud grinding noise emanating from your Insignia microwave likely indicates it’s time to replace the turntable. This rotating glass or plastic plate ensures even cooking by keeping food moving. With regular wear and tear, the turntable can crack, warp, or wear down over time.

The good news? Replacing this part is an easy and affordable fix:

• Locate the model number inside your microwave door to find the correct OEM turntable part.
• Purchase online or from an appliance parts retailer – MSRP is usually under $30. Make sure it fits your interior dimensions.
• Remove old turntable by lifting from the center spindle. It may snap or pop off after years of use.
• Clean spindle area of any food debris before installing the new turntable.
• Insert and place turntable carefully onto the rotational spindle and roller guide. Spin it to test smooth motion.

Voila! In mere minutes, you’ve renewed this crucial microwave component. No need for a costly service call. With a new quality turntable, you’re back in zapping action.

Finding the Model Number

When shopping for a new microwave or troubleshooting issues, you’ll need to know your model number. Insignia makes this easy by placing key information on a sticker inside the appliance.

To find the model number:

1. Open the microwave door to locate the sticker or plate on the right or left interior wall.
2. Here you’ll see the model number, usually starting with “NM” followed by a series of digits. Ex: NM1234
3. You may also find the serial number and manufacturing date here.
4. Write down or take a photo of the model number before doing any research or speaking to support representatives.

Also check under the microwave in case any stickers were placed on the exterior housing. Having the exact model number handy makes finding replacement parts and accessories a breeze. No need to guess – just open the door and check the sticker!

In Summary

I hope this comprehensive guide empowered you to shop smart and maximize every delicious use of an Insignia microwave. While basic, these budget gems deliver tasty results for everything from steaming broccoli to reheating chili without breaking the bank. Let your Insignia speed up supper prep while you flex your savings. Here’s to microwave mastery!